Welcome to the Jobcase resource center for unemployment in Illinois. Whatever your circumstances during this challenging time, we’re here to help and make it as easy as possible! Applying for unemployment benefits can be complicated, so we’ve summarized the process and resources for you below.

What is it called?

Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) runs the Unemployment Benefits program.

Online

To file online use this link and follow the prompts.

Important: Online filing and claims applications will be unavailable every night from 8PM - 10PM for daily claims processing.

In order to process the extremely high volume of unemployment benefit claims due to COVID-19, IDES has implemented the following schedule for those filing claims online and over the phone:

By Phone

To file by phone click here and follow the prompts.

• Those with last names beginning with letters A-M: File Sunday, Tuesday or Thursday
• Those with last names beginning with letters N-Z: File Monday, Wednesday or Friday
• Saturday’s will be available for anyone to accommodate those who could not file during their allotted window

Please call 800-244-5631

The day or time of day in which a claim is filed will not impact whether you receive benefits or your benefit amount.

Additionally, claims will be back-dated to reflect the date in which a claimant was laid-off or let go from their job due to COVID-19.

Good luck, we're here to help! Information is changing quickly. Please consult the state's applicable website provided above to be sure the information is valid.